31 Individuals and Concern Avtomatika Sanctioned

Summary#

The final rule titled Regulations Amending the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations (SOR/2022-189) adds 31 individuals and 1 entity to Canada’s Russia sanctions list. The change took effect when it was registered on August 19, 2022 and tightens rules that block dealings with those listed.

What it does#

• Adds 31 individuals and Concern Avtomatika (an entity) to Schedule 1 of the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations.
• Imposes a broad ban on dealings with those added. That means people and businesses in Canada, and Canadians abroad, are not allowed to deal with, transfer property to, or provide services to the listed persons or entity unless a permit is granted.
• Lists the kinds of people added: mainly high-ranking government and defence-sector officials and some family members.
• Brings the new names into the public Consolidated Canadian Autonomous Sanctions List so banks and other institutions can screen for them.
• Enforcement is handled by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Penalties for knowingly breaking the rules include fines up to $25,000, up to one year in jail on summary conviction, or up to five years in jail on indictment.

Who's affected#

• Financial institutions and banks in Canada — they must update screening systems to block transactions involving the newly listed names.
• Canadian businesses and people who might otherwise trade with or provide services to the listed individuals or Concern Avtomatika.
• The 31 named individuals and the named entity — their assets in Canada (if any) are effectively frozen and transactions with them are prohibited.
• Most ordinary Canadians are unlikely to notice direct effects unless they have direct business or financial links with those listed.

Why it matters#

• This is part of Canada’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The change increases economic pressure on people and organizations that Canada says support or enable Russia’s actions.
• For banks and businesses, it creates an immediate compliance duty — failure to comply can lead to criminal charges and fines.
• It aligns Canada with sanctions taken by allies (including the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, and Japan) to present a coordinated international response.